(Voice of the Persecuted) As advocates for those who cannot speak for themselves, those persecuted, abused and defenseless, we’ve connected with many and have extended our ‘family’.

We’ve seen and learn of much suffering, hearing testimonies and cries from Africa all the way to Asia. I have cried with them, prayed with and for them, encouraged them, and witnessed to them.

We have poured over many photos, reports, and news articles, but nothing in print can portray what the persecuted have endured. But one photo of a persecuted Nigerian family came close. The family had been separated when the Boko Haram abducted the father along with other Christian men. Most were executed and his wife didn’t know if he had survived. Some time later, the militants came to attack and destroy the family’s village. Now alone, the pregnant mother was sent running deep into the forest, trekking through treacherous mountain trails with 6 young children. With others who had fled, they even spent time trapped on a mountain by insurgents who surrounded the foot to prevent them from escaping. Without rations, they were forced to eat grass or die. By God’s hand, bad weather gave them the opportunity to flee when the terrorists left to seek shelter from the storm. Read their Incredible Story of Survival and Faith.

Their journey was long, dangerous and they barely survived it. Many months later, they were reunited with her husband, all praised God and gave Him the glory. But in one photo the look on the couples faces was heartbreaking. Attempting a smile, the darkness they endured shone through in the depths of their eyes. A look that says I have nothing left, our pride or dignity is lost. This, echoes the statements from so many we speak with. Many had the ability and took care of their families, some even lived comfortable lives. But pursued by those bent on genocide or persecution, they fled to protect they’re families. Now they live in extreme poverty hiding or in refugee camps. Yet, they are able to worship and still find joy in the Lord. Nigerian Christians in camps often lack food and clean water and at risk from disease. Like the Nigerians, Middle Eastern refugees are suffering torture, rape and hunger.

In Thailand, it’s the norm for those who fled persecutors in Pakistan to live in hiding without medicine and proper nutrition. They cannot get work visa’s to provide shelter and feed their families. They along with their children become sick and develop illnesses, skin rashes and infections without means for treatment. Unable to buy milk, fruit, a proper diet, nutrition is severely lacking and they’re immune system is greatly affected. Unable to purchase hygiene products also puts them at risks.

Child suffering from lack of medical treatment. Photo: Voice of the Persecuted

But another danger awaits these Christian asylum seekers. Thai police and authorities make regular raids to arrest illegals. The Thai government doesn’t recognize UNHCR asylum certificates. The government will not work with the UNHCR to protect them until they are resettled to a welcoming nation. When arrested, they’re taken like cattle to the Immigration Detention Center. For those unable to pay overstay fees, they wait in the Central Jail with hardened criminals until their court dates, then transferred to the IDC. Once in the IDC, they’re put into overcrowded cells and fed nothing but cucumber and rice in boiling water. Children are fed the same. The cries of their children and the fear of homelessness in a cruel country allows them little peace. Too many, even young adults are diagnosed with hypertension. Health problems such as heart disease, diabetes and other ailments also go untreated. Read more about conditions and what they face at the IDC.

Child arrested with his mother and brought to court in caged police van. Children remain incarcerated along side their parents.

Theses dear ones are forced as they often say, to beg. They have no other choice but to hope someone, anyone will care enough to help. By faith in Christ Jesus, they cry out to the Lord praying for mercy and God’s Provision. They hope in His delight to provide for His children. They lean on Him and pray for protection.

All have one thing in common, they wonder will they be safe for another day. In their eyes they feel as beggars, in our eyes they are heroes. May it be the Body of Christ called by the Lord who will help them endure.

We call upon you, Almighty Father, our great God in heaven, have mercy for them that love You and suffer for Christ. Humbled, we turn to You, Your Word and Promises. Father God, we ask compassion for Your saints. Those who fear your name, without seeing believe, follow Christ and offer their lives. Father God hear the prayers of your servants for Your children in the midst of great trials, we pray day and night.

Father, open the eyes of the Body, Your Church. Lord call and use us, as you often provided through the gifts of those You have blessed. Teach us to give with genuine love in our hearts. Motivate us to aid these brothers and sisters with no expectations as we would for our immediate family members. To share without reasons for reward or praise. Put Your words on our hearts.

If anyone has material possessions and sees a brother or sister in need but has no pity on them, how can the love of God be in that person?Dear children, let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth. I John 3:17–18

And God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work.As it is written:

“They have freely scattered their gifts to the poor;their righteousness endures forever.”

Now he who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food will also supply and increase your store of seed and will enlarge the harvest of your righteousness.You will be enriched in every way so that you can be generous on every occasion, and through us your generosity will result in thanksgiving to God.

This service that you perform is not only supplying the needs of the Lord’s people but is also overflowing in many expressions of thanks to God. 2 Corinthians 9:8-12

Voice of the Persecuted (VOP) is caring for Nigerian Christians forced to live in a refugee camp.

The well project was recently completed (see below), but the needs remain great. In Thailand, VOP is also covering monthly living expenses and emergency medical care for Pakistani families in very dire circumstances. We also deliver nutritional food and hygiene products to those horribly suffering in the IDC. Please remember them in your prayers.

New cases come in nearly every day. Much help is needed to continue covering basic needs for these persecuted families, orphans and widows in Nigeria and Thailand. Your gifts make it possible to get food, clothing, medical needs/care and fresh water to the suffering. These brothers and sisters need our compassion. They are thankful for any help, so encouraged they’re not forgotten. Can you share with these dear ones, today?

By C. Refsland and L. Kanalos – VOP Advocates

Together with your generous help, we can reach the goal to alleviate horrific suffering. In darkness and desperation, let us serve in love, with open arms and giving hands to provide light and hope.

Everyday, we thank God that He is working through you to care for His children and further His Kingdom! As you greatly bless others, may God continue to bless you. Thank you so much for your support. We couldn’t do it without you!
You may also send your gift to:

2740 Third St
P.O. Box 122
Trenton, MI. 48183

Together with your generous help, we can reach the goal to alleviate horrific suffering. In darkness and desperation, let us serve in love, with open arms and giving hands to provide light and hope.

Everyday, we thank God that He is working through you to care for His children and further His Kingdom! As you greatly bless others, may God continue to bless you. Thank you so much for your support. We couldn’t do it without you!
You may also send your gift to:

2740 Third St
P.O. Box 122
Trenton, MI. 48183

Give the Gift of Life Sustaining Clean Water VOP Project 13:3

Each day they were forced to carrying water long distances back to the camp

local overused unclean well

IDP child fetches water from local unsanitary well

Well drillers work hard soil

PRAISE GOD! SUCCESS

Thanking the Lord

Clean water at their location flows freely

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